If you’re in New York City next month and are passionate about photography or filmmaking, mark your calendar for Bild Expo. Bild is a free, two-day creative event packed with workshops, photo walks, gear demos, and talks from industry legends.
Bild is hosted by B&H Photo at the Javits Center on June 17–18, 2025, and this year’s expo features an impressive lineup. Speakers include Oscar-nominated cinematographer Ed Lachman, ASC, conservation photographer Cristina Mittermeier, and YouTube creator Peter McKinnon, alongside over 100 others.
What’s Happening at Bild Expo?
Bild Expo isn’t just another trade show, it’s a hands-on experience for photographers, filmmakers, and content creators at all levels. The event spans multiple stages, interactive zones, and even guided photo walks across NYC. Here’s what to expect.
Six Stages, 100+ Speakers, and a Ton of Content
There will be six themed stages at the expo, each focusing on a different area of the creative process:
- Create & Capture Stage: A more holistic look at production, from concept to post.
- Main Stage: Headliners share personal stories and techniques from their careers.
- Photography Stage: Deep dives into topics like studio lighting and outdoor photography.
- Content Creation Stage: Learn how creators build audiences and produce viral content.
- Filmmaking Stage: Expect practical tips and industry insights from directors and DPs.
- Photo Editing Stage: Focused on workflows in tools like Photoshop and Lightroom.
Walk, Shoot, and Get Feedback on Your Work
In addition to the talks, Bild Expo will offer NYC Photo Walks, giving attendees a chance to shoot around the city with guidance from industry pros. These walks are open to anyone attending; no registration is required.
Portfolio Reviews will be available for those looking for more direct input on their work. These are 15-minute sessions with experienced photographers who will provide feedback on your prints or digital portfolios.
Hands-On Zones and Immersive Experiences
If you’re more into hands-on learning, there’s a long list of interactive zones to check out:
- Kodak Experience Room: Workshops on 8mm and 16mm film workflows, including how to load and shoot with ARRI 16mm cameras.
- Sportraits Experience: Set up and shoot athlete-style portraits with guidance from pros.
- Photo Lighting Room: Practice lighting setups across different genres.
- Disco Experience: Shoot colourful, high-energy scenes on a retro-themed set.
- Camera Shoot-Out: Compare the latest camera systems side-by-side.
- Audio Experience Room: Test microphones and gear for podcasting or video.
- Macro Experience: Explore the details in close-up photography.
- Studio Experience: A look into virtual production using modern tech.
In the Partner Pavilion, you can also connect with organisations such as ASMP, APA, NYC Salt, and National Parks at Night.
End It with a Party (and a Portrait)
The event wraps up with an official afterparty, where attendees can network, enjoy drinks, and even get their portrait taken by renowned photographer Malike Sidibe.
Who Should Attend?
Whether you’re a hobbyist, a working professional, or just curious about photography and filmmaking, Bild Expo offers something for everyone, and it’s completely free. Registration is open now at bildexpo.com.
If you’re in NYC next month, this is a rare chance to learn from some of the best in the industry, test gear, and connect with fellow creators. Will we see you there?
(Bild Expo takes place June 17–18, 2025, at the Javits Center in New York City. Admission is free, but registration is recommended.)
